Julie Keller Callaghan

I'm always happy to pass along good news about our industry. The latest comes from U.S. News & World Report , which called massage therapy one of the best jobs of 2012. Click here for the full report. But here's the gist: Demand for massage therapists is growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects massage therapists employment growth of 20.1...

Following a 2005 visit to Europe, where he experienced the centuries-old tradition of hydrotherapy, Scot McKay was convinced that when it comes to wellness, water works. It was then that the idea for Refuge (Carmel, CA) was born. Six years later, on the auspicious date of 11/11/11, his idea for a facility that was entirely dedicated to hydrotherapy came to...

Starwood’s Director of Global Spa Development and Operations to offer a defense of pampering.

In my opinion, the best thing about our industry is the incredible people. One of my favorites is Jeremy McCarthy, the Director of Global Spa Development and Operations for Starwood. I’m a big fan of his blog, The Psychology of Wellbeing , as well of some of the articles he’s written for American Spa . (Be sure to stay tuned...

New PBA report finally shows increases after three quarters of decline

I love to be the bearer of good news, particularly when it comes to the economy and spa. So, I'm thrilled to pass along a report from the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) regarding the fourth quarter of 2011 for the spa and salon industry. Guess what? We're finally showing a rebound! Driven by stronger sales and traffic levels and a...

SpaFinder's Wellness Week is quickly approaching—it takes place March 19-25 around the country. But this weeklong celebration offers more than just discounted spa services. it also presents wellness seekers with an exciting challenge to help them reach their health goals. The Wellness Week Pledge provides seven simple steps that, if embraced by spa-goers and wellness seekers, will make great strides...

I find Arizona to be a rather romantic place, due partly to the fact that I was married at the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North last December at and will now always see it as a place that makes me think of my big day. Turns out, I’m not the only one who finds it a perfect place...

All Spa & Wellness Gift Cards are available for 10% discount through Feb. 15.

Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift can be a rather stressful endeavor. Thankfully, SpaWeek is making it easier—and cheaper—with a new promotion for this romantic holiday. Through Feb. 15, consumers can save ten percent on all Spa & Wellness Gift Card by Spa Week® denominations on SpaWeek.com . Plus, all orders made by February 9 will receive free shipping. “Valentine’s...

Get some ideas for celebrating this healthy season from Exhale Mind Body Spa.

It just came to my attention that March is National Nutrition month, thanks to an update on a new program from Exhale Mind Body Spa . To celebrate the launch of their extensive Nutrition + Wellness Coaching Program, Exhale will be hosting Nutrition Intuition Day events at all locations on Wednesday, March 14. Complimentary Exhale Detox Yoga evening classes will...

Make the most of your 2011 and 2012 deductions with these helpful strategies.

I am the first to admit that I am not a whiz when it comes to personal finance. In fact, my grandfather has done my taxes every year since I was about 18, and it generally takes at least three calls from grandpa before I get serious about preparing for tax time. Inevitably, I discover too late that I could...

The visionary founder of Rancho La Puerta and Golden Door shares her thoughts on 90 inspiring years of life.

I am an enormous fan of Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico. In fact, I have visited this incredible healing haven several times, and after each visit, I am completely inspired. As such, I think Deborah Szekely, The Ranch’s co-founder and the founder of Golden Door , is one of the most incredible people I’ve ever met. She is an...